Nova House: Empowering Survivors of Intimate Partner and Family Violence in Rural Manitoba

Funding provided through Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy.

Accessing a safe space and the right supports can be a uniquely challenging experience for many, but an incredibly complex – and dangerous – undertaking for those experiencing intimate partner and family violence (IPV). In Canada, as of 2022, approximately 6.2 million women aged 15 years and older had experienced at least one instance of IPV. Among all Canadian provinces, Manitoba recorded the second-highest rate of IPV, whilst the highest rate of IPV nationwide can be found within its rural regions. To address rural Manitoba’s immediate need for support, Nova House provides emergency shelter and resources to survivors of IPV when they need it the most.

Nova House has opened its doors to women and children since its humble beginnings in 1985, and has since evolved into more than just a safe space. It was the first shelter that offered emergency and transitional shelter stays ranging from 30 days to one year within the province. Beyond these stays, Nova House maintains an open line of communication with recently transitioned residents thanks to their outreach housing program, which provides interim housing, life coaching, and other educational programs. By maintaining these connections, Nova House helps prevent re-entry into unsafe situations while simultaneously promoting self-sufficiency among survivors.

The shelter also offers advocacy and support in navigating Child and Family Services, Manitoba’s provincial division dedicated to child welfare and protection; and short- and long-term counseling for children and adults, recognizing the lasting impact of trauma and the importance of sustained mental health support. A 24/7 crisis line further extends their reach, providing immediate assistance to those in need of help.

Supporting Rural Manitobans When They Need It Most

Federal funding is specifically used to employ outreach workers who work with Nova House’s clientele to safely reintegrate them back into the community. These professionals not only provide direct support but also help navigate through provincial resources, ensuring that individuals and families receive the assistance they need to rebuild. Their work is essential, especially as many individuals relying on Nova House's resources grapple with the deep and complex trauma of IPV.

Quick facts:

• The demand for Nova House’s services has been significant since they first offered services from a small office to local residents in 1985. Their first official space, a house, was purchased for $1 in 1987.
• Manitoba has seen an increase in IPV incidents, alongside an increase in its severity province-wide in 2024. This increase is partly attributed to a lack of affordable housing and counseling services.
• Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy is a community-based program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness across Canada. This program provides funding and support to communities to help them address their local homelessness needs.

For more information, visit:

• Nova House
• Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy
• Reaching Home: Rural and Remote Homelessness Funding Stream